The New Year is a perfect time for fresh starts. As you set goals for personal growth, don’t forget that your wardrobe can play a powerful role in your transformation. Your style isn’t just about what’s trendy—like I always say, it’s a reflection of who you are and who you’re becoming.

I’m launching a three part series on three wardrobe tips to help you step into the New Year looking and feeling your best. Up first is tip #1, which is decluttering and defining your style.

Let’s dive in!

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Tip 1 – Declutter and Define Your Style

Start with a closet detox. Let go of pieces that no longer serve you or feel aligned with your goals. Are you aiming for a more polished professional look, or do you want to embrace a relaxed, creative vibe? Keep items that make you feel confident and align with the version of yourself you want to step into.

As a busy mom, finding time to declutter your closet might feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be! With a few efficient strategies, you can streamline your wardrobe and create a space that works for you.

Here’s how to tackle it:

1. Use the “One Hour Rule”

Set aside just one hour—nap time or after the kids are asleep—and focus on one section of your closet, like tops or shoes. Break it into small, manageable chunks so it doesn’t feel like an all-day project. You’ll feel accomplished after each session without sacrificing your valuable time.

2. Apply the “3-Box Method”

Grab three boxes or bags and label them: Keep, Donate, and Toss. As you sort through your clothes, ask yourself:

• When was the last time I wore this?
• Does it fit my current lifestyle and personal style?
• Does it bring me joy or confidence?
  Quickly place each item in one of the boxes and keep moving.

3. Prioritize Function Over Sentiment

It’s easy to hold onto clothes for sentimental reasons, but if they no longer serve you, it’s time to let them go. For keepsakes, consider storing them in a memory box rather than letting them take up precious closet space. Focus on keeping versatile, functional items that make daily dressing easier. As we typically only wear about 20-30% of our wardrobe, think about or make a list of the items you wear on repeat to get an idea of your go-to items.

(Outfit details: Sweater, Skirt or this one, Heels, Bracelet, Bracelet, Earrings)

Have a New Year’s party or event coming up? I’ve rounded up some of my favorite sequin party dresses sure to impress!

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Studies show that the average person wears only about 20-30% of their wardrobe regularly. The rest often consists of items that no longer fit, are out of style, or simply don’t suit your current lifestyle.

For busy individuals like moms, this percentage might be even lower due to the practicality of everyday dressing. Life often demands quick, functional outfit choices, leaving less time to experiment with the full range of clothing in your closet.

Why Does This Happen?

• Sentimental Attachment: Keeping clothes for emotional reasons, even if they’re not worn.
• Aspirational Purchases: Buying items for an ideal version of yourself rather than your real, day-to-day life.
• Decision Fatigue: A cluttered closet can make it harder to see what you own, so you default to familiar pieces.

How to Maximize What You Wear

• Declutter Regularly: Keep only items that fit well and suit your lifestyle.
• Organize Strategically: Arrange clothes by type, color, or frequency of use to make choosing outfits easier.
• Rotate Seasonal Pieces: Store out-of-season items elsewhere to keep your closet focused on what you can wear now.

(Outfit details: Sweater, Skirt or this one, Heels, Bracelet, Bracelet, Earrings)

By taking a step-by-step approach, you can declutter without stress and create a wardrobe that simplifies your busy life while keeping you stylish.

Your wardrobe should feel like an extension of your evolving identity. By aligning your style with your goals and embracing pieces that truly resonate, you’ll not only look great but also exude confidence. Let this be the year you embrace who you’re becoming—inside and out.

-Natalie, xo

(Looking for more style/fashion posts? Explore more here!)